What to expect when investing in renewable energy
Installing renewable energy may help you offset your usage. AES Ohio will calculate your net usage: energy delivered minus any excess energy that is not used but put back on the grid.
If you choose to install renewable energy at your home or business, there are three steps to the process:
- Submit an online application to notify AES Ohio you are installing generation at your home or business. You will receive approval or rejection of your application within four weeks.
- AES Ohio will install a net meter to measure the energy delivered to your home or business as well as any excess energy you put back on the grid.
- You will receive a formal interconnection agreement within five days of your application approval, as well as an invoice for the application review and net meter exchange fees. The agreement will memorialize the interconnection of your distributed generation facility. You have 30 days to sign and return the interconnection agreement.
Please note: Your local inspecting authority may require an inspection release before you can begin using the equipment.
Who qualifies
All AES Ohio customers can take advantage of net metering. To be eligible, customers must meet all of the following requirements:
- Use a renewable resource (solar, wind, biomass, landfill gas, or hydropower) or use a microturbine (combustion turbine) or a fuel cell.
- Have the equipment located on your property.
- Intend primarily to offset part or all of your electricity requirements without the intention of generating excess power.
What to consider
Before investing in a renewable energy system, you should consider the following safety and cost factors:
- Zoning Check with your local government on ordinances for zoning.
- Find a Qualified Contractor A contractor is not required to install the renewable energy system, but you may consider using a contractor that has North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners certification.
- Size / Capacity Consult with your contractor to assure your generating equipment is sized appropriately to ensure the safety and reliability of the electric system.
- Cost Considerations Installing equipment to generate power at your home or business can be expensive and is a long-term investment. Review all impacts to make certain your expectations will be met. If your goal is to reduce your energy usage and save on your bills, you may want to start with AES Ohio's energy-saving tips to make your home more efficient before investing in a renewable energy system.
- Inspections Plan to have your installation inspected by the local authority that has jurisdiction for construction in your area. A building permit prior to construction may be required.
Selling electricity to AES Ohio
Net metering is intended to help customers offset their monthly bill. Your net meter will measure how much power your location produces and consumes, and your bill will reflect credits for excess energy. Learn more
Net metering is not intended for customers to sell power to AES Ohio for profit. AES Ohio will not approve net metering applications where the expected power production far exceeds the customer’s electrical requirements. If you would like to sell power as an Independent Power Producer, please email us for guidance.